Lead cultural connection and support young people to re-engage in learning

ICYS is seeking an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Cultural Connector & Education Support Youth Worker to join PIVOT — a new specialised learning and engagement program for young people aged 10–16 who have disengaged from mainstream schooling and may be connected with the youth justice system.

This is an identified role and provides a culturally strong foundation for the program. You will help young people build cultural pride, identity, belonging and connection to community, while also supporting day-to-day learning and wellbeing activities.

🔎We're building the PIVOT launch team! Multiple roles are currently advertised — explore our other Seek listings and join us.

About ICYS

Since 1983, ICYS Ipswich Community Youth Service has supported children, young people and families in the Ipswich region. We deliver youth support, education engagement, specialist youth justice programs, homelessness assistance & accommodation, vocational support and recreation programs.

PIVOT continues this legacy by offering flexible, culturally safe pathways to learning and opportunity for young people who need a fresh start and a fair chance.

About the role

The Cultural Connector & ESYW plays a key role in ensuring culture is embedded across the PIVOT program. You will:

Build strong, culturally grounded relationships with young people

Provide cultural guidance and connection to Elders, family, kin and community

Support healing, identity, belonging and pride

Assist in delivering literacy, numeracy, culture, life-skills and recreational activities

Work alongside the Lead Educator, Program Coordinator and Case Manager to support engagement and transition back to school, training or employment

Engage families and kin where appropriate to strengthen support around young people

This role contributes to a safe, welcoming, culturally strong, trauma-informed program environment.

What you’ll do

Support cultural identity, belonging and pride through yarning, mentoring and community connection

Build relationships with families and kin where appropriate

Support 1:1 and small-group engagement in learning activities

Assist with cultural programs, on-Country activities, creative projects and community visits

Provide observations to support planning and transitions

Support excursions and off-site learning (including school holiday periods)

Maintain brief notes and records in line with ICYS procedures

Participate in reflective practice, supervision and team meetings

What we’re looking for

Identified position — Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander applicant

Experience supporting young people, families and community networks

Strong understanding of local cultural practices and connections

Ability to build relationships using a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach

Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team

Highly regarded:

Experience in youth work, community services or education settings

Experience supporting young people with complex needs

Mandatory requirements

Current Blue Card (or ability to obtain)

National Criminal History Check (≤6 months)

Current First Aid Certificate (or ability to obtain)

Current Driver's Licence

Employment Details

Hours: 75 hours per fortnight (part-time considered)

Term: To 30 June 2028, subject to funding continuation

Location: ICYS Ipswich Youth Hub / ICYS Head Office (with outreach as required)

Award & Benefits: SCHCDS Level 4 + leave loading, superannuation & salary packaging up to $15,900 tax-free

Why join us?

This is more than a job — it’s a chance to strengthen culture, community and belonging while helping young people build positive futures.

You’ll be part of a supportive, passionate and purpose-driven team launching a new program for young people in Ipswich.

To apply

Review the Position Description

Address the position prerequisites listed on the last page of the Position Description in your cover letter

Submit your cover letter and resume to [email protected]

Applications will be reviewed as they are received and interviews may be scheduled at any time.
Questions can be directed to: [email protected]